How to Pack for Self Storage the Right Way!

1. Understand Your Storage Needs First

• Pick the right size. Don’t overpay for space you don’t need, or worse, end up with a unit that’s too small. Most storage facilities will help you estimate the right size based on what you’re storing.
• Climate-controlled or not? If you’re storing items like electronics, photos, wood furniture, or anything sensitive to heat and humidity, climate control is a smart move—especially in places with extreme temps.
• Think about access. Will you need to get into your unit regularly? Choose a facility with easy access hours and a layout that works for your needs.

2. Make a Packing Plan Before You Start

• List what’s going into storage. This helps you estimate how much space you’ll need—and what packing materials to gather.
• Plan based on frequency of use. Put the stuff you might need sooner up front, and the long-term items in the back.
• Sketch a layout. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just enough to help you remember what went where when you need to grab something later.

3. Gather the Right Packing Supplies

• Boxes or bins? Use sturdy cardboard boxes or clear plastic bins for stackability and visibility.
• Tape, markers, and labels. Don’t skimp on good packing tape. Label every box clearly on multiple sides.
• Wraps and covers. Bubble wrap, furniture blankets, and covers go a long way in protecting fragile or bulky items.

4. Group, Categorize, and Inventory

• Sort by room or type. Kitchen stuff goes together, books go together, and so on. Makes unpacking way easier.
• Create an inventory list. Even a quick note in your phone is better than guessing.
• Take photos. Especially for valuables or electronics—just in case.

5. Pack Items Properly for Storage

Furniture

• Disassemble tables, bed frames, and anything else that comes apart.
• Wrap everything in furniture blankets or covers.
• Store large pieces upright to save floor space.

Electronics

• Take out batteries to avoid corrosion.
• Original boxes are best—but if you tossed those, wrap carefully with padding.
• Keep electronics off the floor with shelving or pallets.

Clothing

• Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, or vacuum-seal bags for seasonal storage.
• Avoid plastic bags—they trap moisture and encourage mold.

Books and Documents

• Pack books flat in small boxes so they don’t get too heavy.
• Keep important documents in waterproof containers.

Fragile Items

• Wrap each item individually in paper or bubble wrap.
• Cushion the box and clearly mark it as FRAGILE.

Special Items: Art, Photos, Mattresses, Appliances

• Use acid-free paper and protective sleeves for photos and artwork.
• Store mattresses flat or in mattress bags.
• Clean appliances well and leave doors slightly open to prevent mold.

6. Maximize Your Storage Space

• Heaviest boxes go on the bottom, lighter on top.
• Use vertical space. Add shelves or stack bins to use the full height.
• Utilize empty furniture. Store small items in dressers or inside appliances.
• Avoid overstacking. If it looks like a Jenga tower, it’s probably going to fall.

7. Organize for Easy Access

• Leave a center aisle. Even a small walkway makes a big difference.
• Put frequently used items up front. Save yourself the back-of-the-unit shuffle.
• Label every box clearly. Use large print and put labels on multiple sides.
• Consider a numbering system. Match box numbers with your inventory list for easy reference.

8. Protect Items from Damage

• Use pallets. Elevate boxes off the floor to guard against moisture.
• Cover everything. Use sheets or drop cloths to protect from dust.
• Insurance & security. Make sure your unit is secure, and consider insurance for peace of mind. At Carson City Storage, we offer optional insurance coverage for your stored items—giving you added peace of mind without making it a requirement like some other facilities do.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t store food, plants, or flammables.
• Skip the cheap tape—it won’t hold.
• Not labeling boxes? You’ll regret it later.
• Don’t stack so high you can’t reach or see what’s in the back.

10. FAQs About Packing for Self Storage

11. Pro Tips for Long-Term Storage Success

• Check on your unit every few months.
• Rotate items if they’re stacked or under weight to avoid permanent dents.
• Use moisture absorbers like silica gel or DampRid to control humidity.

12. Bonus: Packing Tips for Life Situations